The Dog Walker's Nest

Hugh Shurley

Inspired by the love of foraging and gathering, SF artist Hugh Shurley & his dog have taken up the magical bird craft of nest building.

Design, Furniture & Home Accessories

Finalist

Tell us about your business.

For years I have been following my dog
into open fields, up steep hills, through dense forest,
over grown pathways, weed lined roads, bay trails,
parks, private properties, ranches , farms and city streets.
That’s where I began the art of nest making .
I collect and weave all the bits and pieces of flora
that I find on my daily walks with my Dog,
The nests have been selling in local SF gift and home decor stores. They have been displayed in tabletop decor, or grouped together as wall art installations.

Tell us about your workspace, shop, or studio.

I work in the field, and in my home studio. My Studio is a converted detached garage . My studio was built in 1914, part of my Sears Roebuck Craftsman "kit home". Located on the SF Bay, in Point Richmond, Ca

What inspires you?

My Father the wood carver, cain weaver and quilter.

What makes your business stand out?

Other than a billion birds, I don't know of anyone making nests. I'm sure there are others out there, but these are made by me. They are one of a kind, they cannot be duplicated. I tag, number and sign each one.

What advice would you give an aspiring creative entrepreneur?

Follow your heart, and if you’re lucky enough to live with a dog, follow your dog. You will learn a lot about trusting your senses, patience, perseverance, courage, loyalty, and shaking things off.